Steomalacia in the practice of orthopedic surgeon

Abstact. When identifying the causes of low-energy fractures, osteoporosis is first of all recalled. However, we have to face a forgotten problem - osteomalacia. The prevalence of osteomalacia can be indirectly assessed on the basis of the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency. Currently, the vitamin D deficiency is affecting the predominant part of the general population. Among the elderly, especially in case of osteoporotic fracture, the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency can reach 100%. Biochemical testing takes the first place in the diagnosis of osteomalacia. Radiographic examination is very important. The most characteristic manifestations may be Loozer zones, or pseudofractures. The risk groups for hypovitaminosis D and osteomalacia include vegetarians, pregnant women, those who underwent gastric surgeries, patients with impaired renal function, and elderly people. When revealing a decrease in bone mineral density, one must always remember that osteoporosis often occurs with a violation of calcium-phosphorus metabolism, without the normalization of which the appointment of specific osteotropic therapy is extremely dangerous...